Is this a good idea?
My husband and I are coming middle of March. We have 7 nights in Kaanapali and then booked 2 nights in Paia area before our 1:45pm flight home. I had planned to explore towns on drive north to Paia, explore North shore, have a nice meal, stay night and then do Road to Hana, spend 2nd night then fly home. Is this a good plan or any other suggestions? We can not stay more than 7 nights at Kaanapali location as it is already booked. Thanks
Your plan to spend 7 nights in Kaanapali followed by 2 nights in the Paia area sounds like a great way to explore both the more relaxed, scenic North Shore and the famous Road to Hana. Since you have limited time, here's some feedback on your itinerary and a couple of suggestions to make the most of it:
- Day 1-7: Kaanapali – Kaanapali is a beautiful spot for the first half of your trip with easy access to beaches, dining, and resorts. It offers plenty of opportunities for relaxation, beach time, and also some water activities like snorkeling or a boat tour.
- Day 8-9: Paia & Road to Hana – The idea of spending your last two nights in Paia before heading to the Road to Hana is good, but the timing might feel rushed if you want to fully enjoy the Hana Highway and explore the areas along the way. The Road to Hana is a full-day journey if you plan to take it slowly and see the sights (waterfalls, beaches, hikes, etc.). Most visitors who want to enjoy the Hana Highway typically do it in one long day, but since you have two nights, you could break up the drive.
Here are some suggestions and adjustments to consider:
- Split the Road to Hana into two days: Instead of trying to do the full Road to Hana in one day, take a more relaxed approach by driving to Hana, then staying overnight. You can explore some sights on the way there and then finish the loop on Day 2. From Paia, it’s an easy drive to the start of the Road to Hana. In the morning of Day 9, you can take the Hana Highway back and explore more scenic stops (such as the Kipahulu area, the Pools of Oheo, etc.).
- Paia for the night: If you prefer to spend your night in Paia, be sure to enjoy the town, which has a laid-back, artistic vibe, with good food options. You could grab a nice meal at Mama's Fish House or other local spots. Just be mindful that the drive to Hana from Paia is 2-2.5 hours, so leaving late in the afternoon may feel rushed if you want to explore before dark.
- Consider a full day for Hana and an extra night in Paia or Kipahulu: If you're looking for a more relaxed pace, staying an extra night in the Hana area or Kipahulu would allow you to experience the area more fully. There are beautiful places to stay in the Hana area, such as Hana-Maui Resort, where you can rest before continuing the journey back to the airport the next day.
- Alternate Option: Day trip to Hana: If you prefer not to stay overnight in Hana, you can do the Road to Hana as a day trip from Kaanapali. This is a long day, but it can be done if you start early. You can see some of the main highlights along the way (such as Twin Falls, Wai’anapanapa State Park, and Hana Town) and still make it back to Kaanapali by the evening.
In summary, your itinerary is definitely doable but could benefit from slight adjustments to make the most of the Road to Hana experience. Spending two nights in Paia is a good idea, but you might want to either adjust the pacing of the Hana trip or extend your stay in Hana itself if you want to take your time and not feel rushed.
Have a wonderful trip to Maui, and enjoy all the natural beauty the island has to offer!
